Steve Kerr is a first-time coach, having accepting the Warriors job after a dalliance with Phil Jackson and the Knicks.

Then again, when you have championship experience as a player and successful executive experience as Suns general manager, maybe the learning curve isn't that steep.

"I do have a lot to learn, but my experience as a GM helped me in terms of team building," the former Bull and broadcaster said. "And I know what players are thinking. So I feel good about the experience I do have."

Kerr also surely loves his roster, which won 51 games in the uber-competitive Western Conference before discord with management prompted coach Mark Jackson's removal.

"I always knew I wanted to do this," Kerr said. "I was waiting for my kids to get older and don't need me as much. So it's time to do something new.

"I'm excited. It's fun to be a part of a team and try to get players better and be part of something special. That's the best feeling in sports as a player. I haven't felt it as a coach. And I look forward to doing so."

Game on:Doug McDermott and Tony Snell each sank five 3-pointers as the Bulls improved to 2-0 with a 103-76 victory over the Nuggets. McDermott finished with 31 points on 7-for-12 shooting and Snell added 23.

"I felt much better," McDermott said after an uneven debut Saturday. "The game kind of slowed down for me. I felt real comfortable with my shot and didn't force as much."

Melo's money:Carmelo Anthony announced his return to the Knicks on his website. He called Jackson, the Knicks president, a "champion who builds championship teams" and thanked the organizations, including the Bulls, who pursued him before he signed a five-year, $122 million deal.

"During this journey I met with some quality organizations who have amazing talent and leadership," Anthony wrote. "I thank them for their consideration, belief in my talent and opportunity to imagine the possibilities."